Scandal Erupts Before Long Island Republican Primary
Arrest of Political Rival’s Stalker Raises Alarm Among Candidates
A quiet Republican primary race in Smithtown, Long Island, was thrown into disarray just hours before polls were set to open, following the arrest of a local resident who allegedly harassed a political rival. Joshua Smith, 47, the boyfriend of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim’s daughter, was charged with stalking Rob Trotta, who is challenging Wehrheim for his position.
Disturbing Allegations
According to Suffolk County police, Smith reportedly terrorized Trotta over three consecutive nights beginning June 16. The incidents involved Smith pulling into Trotta’s driveway in the early hours, revving his engine loudly, and flashing his high beams. On at least one occasion, Smith exited his vehicle to vandalize Trotta’s campaign signs.
“I was in bed when I first heard it,” Trotta recounted. “It was almost like thunder. I went to the window, but I could hardly see until he drove away.” Trotta described a growing concern for the safety of his family, especially following a recent double homicide of state legislators in Minnesota.
In response to the harassment, Trotta contacted local law enforcement, prompting them to install a license plate reader at his residence. The device successfully flagged Smith’s vehicle during one of the alleged incidents, leading to police intervention.
Timing and Reactions
Smith was arrested late Monday night, just one day before the crucial primary election, which would determine the Republican candidate for Smithtown Supervisor. Trotta’s campaign intensifies as he attempts to unseat Wehrheim, who has served for over seven years.
Prior to Smith’s arrest, Wehrheim’s campaign maintained that neither he nor his associates were involved in any misconduct, labeling the situation a distraction from their focus on the supervisor’s record and campaign objectives. “Ed Wehrheim’s campaign has been focused on his outstanding record of delivering on promises over his last 7 and a half years in office as Supervisor,” a spokesperson commented.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this incident may impact the electoral outcomes and public perception of the candidates involved.
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